The Euros are done, Wimbledon is over and The Olympics have wound down. Ok, the Premier League has got underway with a bang but are you craving some live sport in the flesh? Behold, the National League starts again this Saturday 21st August! Everyone's favourite league of awful refereeing, unfancied teams succeeding and Wrexham forever remaining is almost back. With more full time teams than ever before, The National League looks to be at its most competitive ever this coming season.
First of all, a look back at my prediction from last season. As always with predictions, there are some shockers but as far as predictions go, it wasn't actually too bad.
Last year's effort: The 2020/21 attempt
1) Boreham Wood (Oops)
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2) Stockport County (About right)
3) Yeovil Town (A difficult season)
4) Solihull Moors (Kicked into gear too late)
5) Notts County (Jackpot!)
6) Eastleigh (Almost)
7) Bromley (Back of the net!)
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8) Wrexham (Another one!)
9) Dagenham & Redbridge (In the right region)
10) Torquay United (Didn't back my gut enough)
11) King's Lynn (Easy tiger!)
12) FC Halifax (Backed up the season before more than expected)
13) Hartlepool United (Underestimated the Challinor effect)
14) Wealdstone (Manager legged it too early)
15) Maidenhead (About right)
16) Sutton United (Oops)
17) Chesterfield (Pemberton's side would have finished here)
18) Woking (Struggle predicted)
19) Aldershot (Lower mid table regulars now)
20) Barnet (Managed to be even worse than awful)
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21) Altrincham (First half of the season saved them)
22) Weymouth (Pluckier than anticipated albeit still weak)
23) Dover (They gave up half way but still...CLAIMING IT!)
All in all, I'd claim that half of them were about right which isn't terrible. A few managerial departures and surprise packages put paid to some predictions. However, one thing is for certain. Boreham Wood shall not be topping my prediction this year!
I am always looking to improve the pre-season preview and this year's edition is more comprehensive and detailed than previous editions. Hopefully the extended insights and predictions for each club go down well. Also, I am fully aware that the second I launch this blog, clubs will go and make their final signings before the big kick off. I will keep updating the blog until that first kick off on Saturday!
If you like what you read, follow me on twitter https://twitter.com/leewilsonDRFC for regular non-league content.
Fighting relegation
Aldershot Town
Ins
Giles Phillips (Wycombe)
Jayden Harris (Fulham)
Kevin Lokko (Harrogate)
Corie Andrews (AFC Wimbledon - Loan)
Christian Oxlade Chamberlain (Unattached)
Jacob Berkley-Agyepong (Dartford)
Ibby Akanbi (Maidstone)
Outs
Ricky Miller
Jamie Sendles White
Josh Rees
Jon Nouble
Craig Tanner
Chike Kandi
Alex Finney
James Rowe
Killian Columbie
Shadrach Ogie
Ross McCormack
Harry Panayiotou
Potential Line up
Squad brief: As seems to be the norm at Aldershot these days, it has been a relatively quiet summer in the transfer market. Big name forwards Ricky Miller and Ross McCormack did not work out last season and have promptly been released although the real blow came from 12 goal midfielder Josh Rees' departure to Boreham Wood. A prolific forward is desperately needed to replace Harry Panayiotou's late season burst of form with the striker having joined Livingston in the SPL. As a result, the club have brought in Corie Andrews on-loan from AFC Wimbledon. The 23-year-old was impressive for Kingstonian last season before the pandemic hit which subsequently led to him moving to the League 1 club. Centre backs Kevin Lokko and Giles Phillips have also joined in a bid to reinforce a defence that conceded 66 times last season - a statistic that certainly needs improving on if the Shots are to climb the table. In an interesting move by Danny Searle, Jacob Berkley-Agyepong has also resigned for the club a year after leaving. Initially let go following a reported poor attitude, Agyepong impressed at Dartford in the division below and has seemingly been rewarded with another chance at the Shots. Ibby Akanbi also joins to provide competition for the forward positions after impressing at Maidstone the season before last. Last season, saw the striker recovering his fitness after tearing his ACL and he will hope to impress in his first full National League season.
Manager: Danny Searle's reputation as an excellent young coach has certainly been done no harm by the way in which he has restored stability to the club during his two years in charge. It is worth remembering that Aldershot only avoided relegation at the end of Gary Waddock's tenure in 2019 because of Gateshead's financial issues. Despite operating on a very small budget, Searle is still to fully win over supporters as inconsistent displays continue to prevent the club from taking that next step into the top half of the table.
Unheralded Gem: Kevin Lokko - Struggled to find a home in recent years but the centre back is a strong signing for a club in the lower half of the National League.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Mo Bettamer
Overall Prediction: Aldershot's core squad has shown over the past two years that it is good enough on its day but lacks the consistency and firepower to push out of lower mid table. Worryingly though, the goals of Josh Rees and Harry Panayiotou do not appear to have been replaced and some of the club's signings feel a tad desperate and not up to the quality of the league. As per the previous two years, the Shots will grind out victories when least expected but it may be a closer flirt with relegation this time for Danny Searle and co.
Altrincham FC
Altrincham FC
Ins
Brad Jackson (Chester)
Marcus Dinanga (Stevenage)
Kennedy Digie (Hereford)
Connor Kirby (Harrogate)
David Fitzpatrick (Port Vale)
Ben Pringle (Morecambe)
Ajay Leitch-Smith (Morecambe)
Outs
James Hardy
Simon Richman
Alistair Smith
Joe Piggott
Yusifu Ceesay
Potential line up
Squad brief: The 2020/21 season was a tale of two halves for Altrincham. A stunning start to the campaign saw the club with 33 points after just 21 matches. However, only 14 points were taken from the final 21 games which saw Altrincham plummet from a potential play off challenge to lower mid table. Part of the problem was the side's failure to find a prolific number 9 as Byron Harrison, Joe Piggott and Nyal Bell arrived for short-term stints that provided little reward. This summer, former Stevenage man Marcus Dinanga has been recruited with the hopes that he can help Altrincham pass their fairly meagre goal total of just 46 last season. Dinanga will be supported by the excellent Ryan Colclough. The former Scunthorpe winger was let go by the League Two side after investigations into an assault charge. Colclough joined the Robins whilst on bail and was subsequently cleared of all charges. He repaid Parkinson's faith with 8 goals from just 28 games. Last season's top scorer Josh Hancock will also hope to again hit double figures from attacking midfield whilst the well travelled former Morecambe duo Ben Pringle and Ajay Leitch-Smith have been added to the ranks with the aim of providing creativity and goals from the central areas. The rest of the side is largely untouched which may well bring familiarity as Altrincham look to get off to a fast start.
Manager: Phil Parkinson is the mastermind behind Altrincham's rise to the National League. The former PE teacher and Nantwich Town manager oversaw two promotions in three seasons which saw the club back at the highest level of non-league football before last season's consolidation. In April 2021, Parkinson re-signed as manager with Altrincham as they made the bold leap of becoming a full time club.
Unheralded Gem: Josh Hancock - The attacking midfielder impressed with 12 goals last season.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Marcus Dinanga
Overall prediction: Altrincham's 2021 form is a cause for concern going into what looks to be an incredibly competitive season. A lot rides on Marcus Dinanga and Ajay Leitch-Smith being the men to solve their striking problems since Jordan Hulme's departure at the beginning of last season. However, Altrincham have brought in players with Football League experience and have kept their impressive players from last season. It'll be a battle, but I think they'll survive.
Overall prediction: Realistically Dover need a 60 point season in order to survive relegation to the National League South. This will be a hard ask but considering the lack of money available to them, Andy Hessenthaler has seemingly recruited well with a mixture of youth, experience and the return of Ricky Miller. It will be close, but Dover will certainly give it a good go at staying up.
Dover Athletic
Ins
Ins
Louis Collins (Sevenoaks)
Ricky Miller (Aldershot)
Reda Johnson (No club)
Ben Williamson (Bromley)
Seth Twumasi (Maidenhead)
James Caton (Nuneaton Borough)
Khale da Costa (Tonbridge Angels)
Jake Goodman (Ebbsfleet)
Aaron Cosgrave (AFC Wimbledon)
Ryan Hanson (Hull)
Adam Parkes (Watford - Loan)
Henry Woods (Gillingham - Loan)
Danny Collinge (Free)
Outs
Yusif Mertin
Outs
Yusif Mertin
Josh Passley
Will de Havilland
Jack Munns
Kurtis Cumberbatch
Paul Rooney
Joe Bedford
Oscar Gobern
Steven Rigg
Bilel Hinchiri
Akheem Rose
Omar Mussa
Marvel Ekpiteta
Louis Collins
Ade Azeez
Potential line up
Squad brief: All change at Dover. After chairman Jim Parmenter decided to withdraw the club from all fixtures midway through last season, Dover begin this season with a 12 point deficit and only a few existing members of last season's squad. Club captain Sam Wood was the most prominent member of the squad to re-sign as Andy Hessenthaler has moved for no fewer than 14 players during the transfer window. The majority of these incomings are young players from the lower leagues. However, there are a few names amongst the masses which certainly catch the eye. Former goal machine Ricky Miller has returned to spearhead the attack. Miller has had his fair share of problems since leaving Dover and a return may be the perfect marriage for player and club. The less prolific Ben Williamson and young tricky wide forward Aaron Cosgrove will look to supplement Miller in attack. Dover have also looked towards experience at the heart of their defence. The well-travelled Reda Johnson and Jake Goodman will compete with Danny Collinge for the centre back spots. In midfield, the young contingent of TJ Bramble, Henry Woods and Ryan Hanson will likely start the season although Hessenthaler has admitted himself that he is in the market for more experience in that area.
Manager: Andy Hessenthaler is a name well-known at lower league level. Having played until the age of 44 whilst managing, the former Gillingham legend experienced his greatest success during his first spell as Dover managing over ten years ago where he managed to lead the club to two consecutive league titles and the semi finals of the Conference South play offs. Since then, Hessenthaler's management career has been rather nomadic with short spells at Leyton Orient and Eastleigh. His return to Dover in 2018 has been blighted by budget cuts and financial issues largely caused by the pandemic yet he retains the faith of those in charge to lead Dover out of relegation trouble this season.
Unheralded Gem: Danny Collinge - A former England youth international who has played at the U17 World Cup. The centre back is looking to work his way back up into the Football League.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Ricky Miller
Overall prediction: Realistically Dover need a 60 point season in order to survive relegation to the National League South. This will be a hard ask but considering the lack of money available to them, Andy Hessenthaler has seemingly recruited well with a mixture of youth, experience and the return of Ricky Miller. It will be close, but Dover will certainly give it a good go at staying up.
King's Lynn Town
Ins
Paul Jones (Free)
Ethan Coleman (Brackley)
Munashe Sundire (St Albans)
Junior Morais (St Mirren)
Pierce Bird (Eastleigh)
Gold Omotayo (Wrexham)
Dan Bowry (Cheltenham)
Luis Fernandez (Stevenage)
Joe Rowley (Chesterfield - Loan)
Malachi Linton (Wycombe - Loan)
Outs
Alex Kiwomya
Michael Gash
Sam Kelly
Ryan Jarvis
Chris Smith
Sonny Carey
Dayle Southwell
Jordan Richards
Potential Line up
Squad brief: Following a wonderful promotion season with Adam Marriott hitting 28 goals, it is fair to say that King's Lynn Town underwhelmed with their return to the National League last season. Much was expected from a side who entertained with slick passing football previously but the club were saved from relegation by the pandemic as they only returned a paltry 31 points in total. Ian Culverhouse complained at times about the state of the Linnet's pitch nullifying their passing style but the problems went beyond that with their top goal-scorer only hitting 7 goals all season. Goal getter Marriott departed towards the back end of the season following an injury hit campaign whilst age appeared to catch up to Michael Gash. With a switch to becoming a full time club, Culverhouse has looked to strengthen in a bid to tighten up following a ridiculous 98 goals conceded last season. Experienced goalkeeper Paul Jones will provide a commanding voice at the back whilst the acquisition of centre back Pierce Bird from Eastleigh is somewhat of a coup following an impressive season just gone. A reshuffle up top has also occurred as the Linnets look to provide a more consistent threat. Experienced Junior Morias and former Wrexham man Gold Omotayo are the two recruited. In particular, Omotayo is an intriguing option as a former goalkeeper-turned-striker who appears to have a raw ability that perhaps needs a little nurturing for the finer moments. Elsewhere, the sale of star midfielder Sonny Carey to Blackpool, although a loss, will have provided much needed income following financial issues throughout last season.
Manager: Whilst plying much of his early trade as an assistant to Paul Lambert, Ian Culverhouse has recently made a name for himself in management after back to back promotions at King's Lynn Town. The Norwich City legend became well known for his brand of exciting possession based football in the lower leagues which yielded goals left, right and centre on their climb to the National League. Last season saw Culverhouse's side perhaps lose their identity for the first time during his reign but the manager now has the chance to put right last season's wrongs by nailing his summer recruitment.
Unheralded Gem: Pierce Bird - A young ball playing centre back who impressed with his assuredness at both Notts County and Eastleigh.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Gold Omotayo
Overall prediction: In order to survive, King's Lynn must get this summer's rebuild right after last season's free hit. The switch to full time football could be a potentially expensive mistake if the Linnets end the season in the bottom three. It will be close but Culverhouse's recruitment so far suggests to me that they are on the right path and they will certainly entertain as they aim to reach that magical 50 point mark.
Maidenhead United
In
Kane Ferdinand (Woking)
In
Kane Ferdinand (Woking)
Emile Acquah (Southend)
Dylan Asonganyi (Oxford United)
Will de Havilland (Dover)
James Holden (Reading - Loan)
Charlee Adams (Unattached)
Jack Senga (Reading - Loan)
Outs
James Comley
Jerry Wiltshire
Danilo-Orsi Dadomo
Rohan Ince
Josh Coley
Seth Twumasi
Potential line up
Squad brief: As mentioned in last season's preview, Maidenhead looked 'quite good on paper' and they promptly proved this with a comfortable 13th place finish. Unfortunately, an acceleration in improvement normally leads to other clubs sniffing around and sadly for Maidenhead, they lost two of their best players in star striker Danilo Orsi-Dadomo and dynamic midfielder Josh Coley to Football League clubs over the summer. Replacing Orsi-Dadomo, in particular, is a difficult task and Alan Devonshire has acted by bringing in youngster Emile Acquah who had a couple of short spells on loan at the club from Southend last season. Acquah's inexperience means he is unlikely to be expected to shoulder the goal-scoring burden alone. A lot will be expected of Josh Kelly who spent the majority of last season out injured but was on the verge of a move up the footballing pyramid beforehand. The core of Maidenhead's squad does remain however. Manny Parry and Alan Massey will likely head and kick everything away from the centre of defence with Will de Havilland signing from Dover to provide competition there. Nathan Blissett will likely continue as the big target man up front and will hope to be fed quality deliveries from Dan Sparkes and Sam Barratt. Rohan Ince's departure to Woking was a blow after an impressive season in central midfield but Maidenhead have effectively done a swap deal by bringing in Kane Ferdinand. Time will tell which club got the better deal there.
Manager: Since finishing an impressive playing career, Alan Devonshire has carved out an almost equally as impressive managerial career at non-league level. The former West Ham and England midfielder has only managed three clubs over a 25 year managerial career highlighting his nous and longevity. Multiple promotions with Hampton and Richmond in the early noughties saw Devonshire move to manage Braintree where he achieved three top half finishes across four seasons in the National League. Upon moving to Maidenhead to become manager there for the second time in his career, Devonshire won instant promotion to the National League where he has maintained Maidenhead's status in the top tier of non-league ever since.
Unheralded Gem: Sam Barratt - 15 goals from the wing for the ex Southend man in his debut National League season.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Sam Barratt
Overall prediction: As one of the only remaining part time clubs in the league, it was inevitable that an above average performance last season was going to see Maidenhead lose their better players. However, Alan Devonshire always has his side well drilled and ready to take advantage of any sides not on top of their game. It will be hard to go a step further and break into the top half this season but Devonshire's gritty approach should have Maidenhead safe from the bottom 3.
Wealdstone
Ins
Jack Cook (Woking)
Rhys Browne (Sutton)
Andrew Eleftheriou (Dagenham & Redbridge)
Josh Umerah (Torquay United)
Matt Buse (Torquay United)
Nikola Tavares (Crystal Palace)
George Wickens (Fulham)
Charlie Cooper (Woking)
Zach Dronfield (Norwich City)
Alfie Marigliani (Barnet)
Medy Elito (Barnet)
Outs
Ross Lafayette
Ryan Gondoh
Michee Efete
Connor Smith
Danny Green
Moses Emmanuel
Jorome Slew
Michael Phillips
Jacob Mendy
Jake Askew
Potential line up
Squad brief: It's hard enough debuting in a new league in the midst of a pandemic but it's even harder when your manager is linked to other clubs just weeks into the season. Eventually Dean Brennan did depart midway through last season after months of speculation leaving Wealdstone lacking a sense of direction. Stuart Maynard, Brennan's former assistant, was given the job and he has been busy this summer making key changes to the squad. Gone are some of the stalwarts from the Stones' promotion campaign as Ross Laffayette and Danny Green amongst others were let go. Probably the biggest blows to Wealdstone were the loss of rampaging full backs Michee Efete and Jacob Mendy. Efete was actually released after a difficult season but was quickly snapped up by Grimsby Town. Mendy was a more reluctant departure with Boreham Wood managing to persuade the club to part with their left sided star. Maynard has been quick to bring in some experienced National League players in a bid to pull away from the relegation zone this season. Consistent right back Andrew Eleftheriou will add stability and a decent cross down one side whilst the exciting Rhys Browne will likely play in front of him or off the striker having signed from last season's title winners Sutton United. Elsewhere, centre backs Jack Cook and former loan signing Nikola Tavares have joined from Woking and Crystal Palace respectably in a bid to improve the division's worst defensive record from last season with a meteoric 99 goals conceded! Maynard has also gone for two ex Gulls with Box to box midfielder Matt Buse and striker Josh Umerah signing up too. However, Wealdstone's squad does currently look light and it is likely that the loan market will be tapped into as the season progresses.
Manager: Stuart Maynard is a new name in the managerial world after being appointed Wealdstone boss in March 2021. The Stones' new gaffer was Assistant Manager to previous boss Dean Brennan, who he had previously assisted at Billericay Town and Kingstonian. Maynard impressed enough during his caretaker spell to be offered the job permanently with former Fulham and Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Matt Saunders as his assistant.
Unheralded Gem: Matt Buse - An all action box to box midfielder who broke onto the scene for Torquay around two seasons ago.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Rhys Browne
Overall prediction: Since being appointed permanent manager back in March, Stuart Maynard has only managed to take 8 points from 17 games, albeit in difficult circumstances. The Stones will need to make a positive start to the season though or else the inexperienced manager will come under serious pressure. Summer recruitment looks to have strengthened the first XI although the lack of depth in the squad means the loan system will likely make or break their attempts to avoid the bottom three. In particular, if Josh Umerah continues his scoring record at previous clubs, finding a goal-scoring number nine in the market will be vital to Wealdstone's hopes of survival.
Weymouth
Ins
Brandon Goodship (Southend)
Tom Bearwish (Eastleigh)
Bradley Ash (Chippenham Town)
Ross Fitzsimons (Stockport)
Akheem Rose (Dover)
Tyler Cordner (Bournemouth)
Xander McBurnie (Barnet)
Omar Mussa (Unattached)
Taofiq Olomowewe (Unattached)
Outs
Myles Anderson
Harry Burns
Jordan Ngalo
Cody Cooke
Jack Dickson
Alefe Santos
Joan Luque
Josh Wakefield
Jack Hoey
Adeoye Olumuyiwa
Jake McCarthy
Jacob Mensah
Gerard Benfield
Potential line up:
Brief: Following the blow of losing their manager last pre-season, Weymouth, under Brian Stock, will have been hoping for a calmer process this time around. Like several of the sides who were promoted in the 19/20 season. Weymouth have had a bit of a squad clear out as they look to put together a group good enough to remain in the National League this season. As one of the smaller part-time clubs in the division, Weymouth have had to take a chance on some players who other clubs deem surplus to requirements. Tom Bearwish, Bradley Ash and Akheem Rose from Eastleigh, Chippenham Town and Dover respectively fit neatly into this category as young players who have never been able to fully shine for the clubs that they've represented. Another one who falls into this category is Brandon Goodship who formerly scored a mammoth 77 goals in 97 games in the Evo-Stik and Southern Premier Leagues for Weymouth. Goodship got his dream Football League move, as a result, to Southend but it never worked out with only 4 goals scored in two seasons. Goodship's return is met with high hopes but it remains to be seen whether he can score prolifically at National League level in the way that impressive loan star Andy Dallas did for the club last season. Hopes of getting Dallas back, after 12 goals in 25 games last season, were dashed when he signed on loan for Solihull Moors this season. In other business, Stock has also brought in goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons and young centre back Tyler Cordner to hopefully strengthen the defence. Stock will also be counting on the experience of Josh McQuoid, Sean Shields and the ever-improving Ollie Harfield to provide the know how and quality for the side in the crucial moments.
Manager: A new name to the world of football management - Brian Stock jumped at the chance to fill the post of Weymouth manager following Mark Molesley's departure to Southend United last pre-season. This is Stock's first senior management position after previously running his own private youth academy following the conclusion of a long playing career. The former Wales international will have gained valuable experience from last season's campaign, which had the comfort blanket of no relegation, as he aims to keep Weymouth as a National League side beyond this season.
Unheralded Gem: Ollie Harfield - A fans favourite who defends well and chips in with assists from left full back.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Brandon Goodship
Overall prediction: Sadly, I fear that this will be Weymouth's last season for now in the National League. The club appear to have signed players who have previously struggled to impose themselves at National League level. Had relegation been in effect last season, Weymouth would certainly have been in the mix with only 39 points after 42 games. With the squad only looking marginally stronger and greater competition throughout the league, it is tough not to predict Weymouth as one of the three clubs to be relegated come May.
Mid-table
Barnet
Ins
Ins
Josh Payne (Ebbsfleet)
Jake Askew (Wealdstone)
Sam Beard (Dorking)
Kian Flanagan (Crystal Palace)
Jordan Thomas (Norwich City)
Josh Doherty (Crawley Town)
Adam Marriott (Kings Lynn)
Jamie Turley (Leyton Orient)
Mason Bloomfield (Hartlepool)
Mitch Brundle (Dagenham & Redbridge)
Reiss Greenidge (Bolton - loan)
Serhat Tasdemir (Peterborough - loan)
Joe Widdowson (Leyton Orient)
Daniel Powell (Crewe)
Sam Sargeant (Leyton Orient - Loan)
Outs
Muhammadu Faal
Michael Petresso
Courtney Baker Richardson
Adam Parkes
Sam Beard
Themis Kefalas
Scott Loach
Dwight Pascal
Jack Connors
Alex McQueen
Jerome Binnom-Williams
Loic Hernandez
Lee Vaughan
Tyrone Duffus
James Dunne
Elliott Richards
Jack Tompkins
Anthony Wordsworth
Alfie Pavey
JJ Hooper
Tomi Adeloye
Josh Walker
Liam Daly
Matt Preston
Potential line up:
Squad brief: Last season can only be described as a disaster avoided for Barnet. A squad and manager assembled on the cheap were well on their way to relegation before all leagues step two and below were cancelled due to the pandemic. The end result was a side that only mustered 31 points and 37 goals who lived to fight another day. Former Crawley manager Harry Kewell and ex Wealdstone manager Dean Brennan are the duo tasked with restoring pride to the club. Unsurprisingly, the squad has been ripped apart with a released list as long as your arm. One departure that the club would have hoped to avoid was that of goalkeeper Scott Loach. Loach was widely regarded as one of the better keepers in the league. The management team have acted since to bring in Sam Sargeant and Jake Askew to fight for the number one spot. Other summer signings so far have looked more in line with supporter expectations than previously. Experienced defenders Jamie Turley and Joe Widdowson have been recruited from Leyton Orient and should help provide a much more secure base for Barnet to build from. The club will have been disappointed to lose last season's loan star Sam Skeffington in central midfield but Kewell and Brennan have swiftly looked to bulk up in this area. Defensive midfielder Josh Payne, who previously played under Kewell, joins from Ebbsfleet whilst prolific midfielder Mitch Brundle has been snapped up following his release from Dagenham & Redbridge, although questions remain about his suitability for a deeper role in midfield. Going forward, exciting youngster Serhat Tasdemir could provide the flair from attacking midfield after signing on loan from Peterborough and Adam Marriott will be hoping to re-find his King's Lynn form after signing permanently from Eastleigh. Winger Daniel Powell could also excite fans after a move from Crewe although time will tell where he fits into the pre-season 3-5-2 formation. Amongst other signings, initial impressions are that this looks like a far more competent squad this season. What will make or break Barnet's season will largely be how Harry Kewell fares after a fairly uninspiring start to his managerial career in League Two. Don't be surprised to see Dean Brennan as the sole Barnet manager come the end of the season.
Manager(s): After years of questionable decisions, chairman Tony Kleanthous has put his trust in Harry Kewell and Dean Brennan to push the club up the league towards the play off positions. Brennan's appointment was not too surprising as there was intense speculation that he was to replace Peter Beadle last season whilst still managing at Wealdstone. Kewell's appointment was perhaps a bit more of a surprise. The former Leeds and Liverpool star has yet to really succeed in management after short spells at Crawley, Notts County and Oldham all ended in a sacking. Kewell has been given the title of Head Coach whilst Brennan's Head of Football role involves all off field matters such as recruitment, performance and analysis. It will be intriguing to watch how the partnership unfolds.
Unheralded Gem: Jamie Turley - If he remains fit, an excellent non-league level centre back who leads by example.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Adam Marriott
Overall prediction: It's never dull down at Barnet. Hopes within the club will be that this season is much calmer and that performances can rekindle harmony with a fanbase who probably would have voted with their feet if they had been given the chance last season. The squad looks much more suited to National League demands although there are still questions about the suitability of the management team and the chairman's commitment which will likely linger. A comfortable stint in mid-table this year is probably the safest bet.
FC Halifax Town
Ins
Ins
Harvey Gilmour (Stockport)
Billy Waters (Torquay United)
Matty Warburton (Northampton)
Jordan Slew (Morecambe)
Jamie Cooke (Colne FC)
Javid Swaby-Nevin (Unattached)
Aidan Dowling (Blackburn - Loan)
Gerry McDonagh (Tamworth)
Tyrell Warren (Unattached)
Jesse Debrah (Unattached)
Outs
Reuben Noble Lazarus
Danny Williams
Jack Earing
Jeff King
Nathan Clarke
Harrison Davison Hale
Neill Byrne
Jake Hyde
Potential line up
Squad brief: Another season and another year of writing off Halifax. Two years in a row, Pete Wild's side have comfortably finished in the top ten of the National League despite being written off on both occasions. Some inconsistent form in the final weeks of last season saw them finish just four points adrift of the play offs though. With the new season fast approaching, most clubs have built on what they did last season but Halifax look to have regressed. Four key players have departed in right back Jeff King, centre back Neill Byrne, attacking midfielder Jack Earing and striker Jake Hyde. In particular Earing, who has moved to Walsall in League Two, will be a big miss with his energy and goal contributions from midfield. Hyde's goals will also be difficult to replace although the 31-year-old did suffer an injury prone season so perhaps the time was right to bring in a new striker. Billy Waters from Torquay is the replacement although he has struggled for goals since his Cheltenham days four years ago. Wild may also be hoping that Matt Stenson can contribute to the team's cause when fit after missing the near entirety of last season through injury. Matty Warburton may be a canny signing however. Most comfortable as a 2nd striker, Warburton has scored for fun previously in the National League North but has struggled to be prolific at League Two level in recent years. Harvey Gilmour and Jordan Slew have also been signed to add competition to the midfield and forward areas. Still, Halifax have retained the likes of Kieran Green, Luke Summerfield, Tom Bradbury and Jack Senior - all of whom will be key to ensuring that the progress of recent years is maintained. Expect Wild to add to the squad over time and for Halifax's team to evolve as the season plays out.
Manager: Pete Wild is one of the rare breed of managers who have not played the game at a professional level themselves. Coaching from the age of 18, Wild spent 10 years as Oldham's interim academy manager before a few stints as caretaker boss saw him land the job full time. Nevertheless, he only lasted for 9 games before resigning for personal reasons. Just two months later, Wild accepted Halifax's offer following Jamie Fullarton's sudden resignation and has since led the club to two very respectable finishes in and around the play offs.
Unheralded Gem: Kieran Green - Tough tenacious midfielder who covers the ground excellently and rarely wastes possession.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Billy Waters
Overall prediction: As is the norm now, Halifax appear to be leaving their business late. In previous years, they have looked worryingly short going into the first game but Pete Wild has found the tools to push Halifax into the play off reckoning over the course of past two seasons. In hindsight, although they lost a few players last summer, perhaps I was too hasty to write them off given they retained the core of their squad. This summer however, the players who have departed do appear key to Halifax's prior success. Considering the strengthening happening from sides around them, it is hard not to put Halifax down for a slight regression this year.
Southend United
Ins
James Dunne (Barnet)
Josh Coulson (Leyton Orient)
Jack Bridge (Bromley)
Rhys Murphy (Yeovil)
Abu Ogogo (Bristol Rovers)
Steve Arnold (Northampton)
Sam Dalby (Watford)
Matt Dennis (Norwich - Loan)
Hamzad Kargbo (QPR - Loan)
Outs
Kenny Coker
Emile Acquah
Brandon Goodship
Harry Kyprianou
Alan McCormack
Jacob Mellis
Richard Taylor
Michael Klass
Ide Osimeh
Brandon Goodship
Sam Hart
Mark Oxley
Timothee Dieng
Ricky Holmes
Potential Line Up
Squad brief: The 2020/21 season could not have gone much worse for Southend. Curiously, the Shrimpers' defensive record was not terrible all things considered but only scoring 29 goals over 46 games gives some indication as to why Southend are now in this non-league predicament. And then, the less said about the current ownership of the club, the better... All in all, it leaves returning manager Phil Brown with an enormous rebuilding job. Straight away, Brown has looked to sign experienced lower league players with local south east foundations as Josh Coulson, James Dunne, Rhys Murphy and Abu Ogogo have all joined. Centre back Coulson joins after a successful three year spell at Leyton Orient where he was previously promoted from the National League whilst striker Murphy joins from Yeovil after an injury prone season. Dunne and Ogogo will look to bring the best out of each other in midfield although both have had troubled campaigns just gone with Dunne's performances being heavily criticised at Barnet and Ogogo struggling to make the Bristol Rovers squad. Elsewhere, Southend have retained club captain John White and full back Jason Demetriou aged 35 and 33 respectively. The club have looked to invest in youth in places with young striker Sam Dalby joining seemingly as Murphy's strike partner. Dalby joins the likes of existing youngsters Terrell Egbri, Matt Rush and Lewis Gard amongst others who will be hoping to impress at this level. All in all, Phil Brown has some work to do over the season as the squad firmly looks to be in transition at present.
Manager: Gather a list of all the National League managers and the most recognisable to a neutral would be Phil Brown. The 62-year-old is about to embark on his first stint of non-league football after managing throughout the Football League at the likes of Derby, Preston and Hull. Brown's most notable achievement was keeping Hull City in the Premier League for a season. More recently, he found himself at Indian Super League side Hyperabad FC before being sacked at the beginning of 2020. Brown's return to Southend, the club he managed for five years between 2013 and 2018, is a crucial one for his career. Failure to succeed will likely mean curtains on any ambition to manage again in the Football League.
Unheralded Gem: Terrell Egbri - Only 5 foot 4 but the 20 year old is a constant whippet down the wing.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Rhys Murphy
Overall prediction: Southend's summer business reminds me a touch of what Dagenham & Redbridge did last summer in buying battle hardened players who have been around the block. Daggers manager Daryl McMahon later commented in the season that in hindsight, he'd left the squad with too many of this type of player and not enough with the legs and fearlessness to impact the game in the way he wanted. With a chunk of the squad also still fresh from last season's disaster, I think it could well a chastening season for Southend. One in which they may well be looking over their shoulders in.
Woking FC
Ins
Tyreke Johnson (Gillingham)
Ins
Tyreke Johnson (Gillingham)
Inih Effiong (Stevenage)
Solomon Nwaboukei (St Albans)
Tom Champion (Boreham Wood)
Joe McNerney (Crawley)
Rohan Ince (Maidenhead United)
George Oakley (Kilmarnock)
Kyran Lofthouse (Oxford United)
Kane Thompson-Sommers (Birmingham - Loan)
Tahvon Campbell (Cheltenham)
Jordan Maguire-Drew (Leyton Orient)
Tarryn Allarakhia (Crawley)
Outs
Matt Jarvis
Jack Cook
Dave Tarpey
Kane Ferdinand
Paul Hodges
Potential line up
Squad brief: Last summer, it looked as if a tough season was in store for Woking and so it proved. Losing key players such as Jake Hyde, Manny Parry and Moussa Diarra along with being forced to furlough much of the first team led to a 20th place finish in the league. Man mountain Diarra has since rejoined the club as Alan Dowson looks to rebuild a side that can break into the top half of the table. The Cards have moved quickly to strengthen the spine of their team with centre back Joe McNerney making the move from Crawley. The 31-year-old will likely partner Diarra in a very dominant looking partnership at the heart of the defence. The experienced signings continue as midfielders Tom Champion and Rohan Ince join from Boreham Wood and Maidenhead respectively. Ince, in particular, was one of Maidenhead's shining lights during their overperforming season last year and represents quite a coup for Woking to land. Dowson has also looked to address last season's problems up front where no more than 4 goals were scored by any individual striker. Former Dover striker Inih Effiong has joined along with George Oakley, who has experience playing in the Scottish Premier League for numerous sides. Jordan Maguire-Drew might be the pick of the bunch providing he is given the freedom to express himself and not too many defensive responsibilities. As always, sides like Woking have to take a gamble with unproven young players and they have signed 22-year-old left winger Tyreke Johnson from Gillingham and taken central midfield Kane Thompson-Sommers on loan from Birmingham. On the whole though, the club's future does look bright as American Sports Executive John Katz joined as director last November which also aided the club's move to a full time model. As a result, Woking's budget has been enlarged as they aim to take steady steps towards establishing themselves as a force within this division.
Manager: Alan Dowson has forged a very successful career in non-league football over the last 15 years. Starting out in 2004 with Walton & Hersham, he soon attracted the approaches of Kingstonian whom he spent 7 years with and led to a promotion from the Isthmian League South along with several top five finishes. Dowson's next project was at Hampton & Richmond who he led to promotion from the Isthmian Premier League scoring over 100 goals and was also a penalty shoot out away from taking the club to the National League in 2018. Just two days after that near miss, Dowson joined Woking and he achieved promotion to the National League with them in his very first season. The club finished 10th in their first season back in the top tier of non-league football and embarked on a run to the FA Cup third round where they faced Premier League side Watford.
Unheralded Gem: Joe McNerney - The perfect centre half for Woking. Will head it and kick it all day long. Woe betide anybody playing direct against the Cards!
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: George Oakley
Overall prediction: Amongst the carnage of big money signings from title chasing sides in the division, Woking have quietly put together a decent looking squad full of physicality throughout the spine. Like Maidenhead last season, I am tipping Woking to be the unfancied side who surprise a few. A play off spot may be a bit too far for them this year but Woking, under Alan Dowson, will certainly enforce their style of play upon others this season and it wouldn't be a surprise to see them in and around the top half for a portion of the season.
Yeovil Town FC
Ins
Morgan Williams (Coventry City)
Ins
Morgan Williams (Coventry City)
Charlie Wakefield (Bromley)
Grant Smith (Chesterfield)
Mark Little (Bristol Rovers)
Jordan Barnett (Notts County)
Lewis Simper (Cambridge United)
Dale Gorman (Glentoran)
Sonny Blu Lo-Everton (Watford - Loan)
Adi Yussuf (Blackpool)
Outs
Jimmy Smith
Carl Dickinson
Rhys Murphy
Charlie Lee
Chris Dagnall
Emmanuel Sonope
Gabriel Rogers
Alex John
Lawson D'Ath (remaining with club for rehab purposes)
Potential line up
Squad brief: Last season proved to be a tough one for Yeovil Town with the tragic death of club captain Lee Collins midway through the season rocking the club. Alongside this, co-owner Errol Pope resigned in December 2020 citing the financial implications of the pandemic as the main factor. Within the co-ownership, Pope was the one with the funds whilst fellow co-owner Scott Priestnall was involved more for his business nous than his millions. Priestnall has looked to steady the ship but appears to be willing to sell if the right offer comes in. As a result, incomings have been slow and perhaps not of the quality that supporters were expecting to enable the side to push on from their inconsistencies. This season, Yeovil's squad looks rather different in the key areas from the one that started the last. Many of the experienced players have departed with Charlie Lee and Chris Dagnall moving on whilst Carl Dickinson and Jimmy Smith have since retired. Prolific strike duo Rhys Murphy and Courtney Duffus are no longer with the club as Joe Quigley and new signing Adi Yussuf are entrusted to lead the line up front following Reuben Reid's pre-season injury. In another blow to the club, tenacious midfielder Albi Skendi did not return for pre-season after deciding to stay in the USA despite remaining registered with the club. The Glovers have made several signings to replace those departed with the experienced full back Mark Little, goalkeeper Grant Smith and former Leyton Orient midfielder Dale Gorman being some of the standout names. Injuries though have hit the club hard in pre-season with Reuben Reid tearing a hamstring and Mark Little seemingly out for a while amongst other niggles. It may be that further players are signed as the season progresses to compliment what is currently a threadbare squad.
Unheralded Gem: Tom Knowles - Goal-getting attacker midfielder who will be commanding interest from higher up the footballing pyramid if he maintains his fine performances this season.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Tom Knowles
Overall prediction: Yeovil appear to be heading down that dangerous path where one thing goes wrong after another. The departure of Rhys Murphy is a significant blow with the club's remaining strikers lacking that same assuredness in front of goal. With the club unable to compete on the money front with many others in the division, it has left the squad looking rather threadbare. Darren Sarll will have to work the loan market effectively over the course of the season or else Yeovil could find themselves getting sucked into a battle near the bottom.
Play off contenders
Boreham Wood
Ins
Frankie Raymond (Bromley)
Ins
Frankie Raymond (Bromley)
Josh Rees (Aldershot)
Jacob Mendy (Wealdstone)
Will Evans (Chesterfield)
Connor Smith (Wealdstone)
Scott Boden (Chesterfield)
Outs
Adam McDonnell
Piero Mingoia
Ryan Huddart
Danny Woodards
Tom Champion
Keiran Murtagh
Matt Rhead
Shaq Coulthirst
Kabongo Tshimanga
Potential line up
Squad brief: Boreham Wood have long become an established part of the National League setup. Even so, the club and supporters will be disappointed with how feeble they were for the bulk of last season. Expected to mount a promotion challenge, the team finished 14th with only 13 wins all season. Changes have been made throughout the summer with Luke Garrard perhaps a touch fortunate to retain his role. However, Assistant Manager David Dodds was let go amongst others with former Watford legend Lloyd Doyley appointed as Garrard's right hand man. Chairman Danny Hunter indicated the club's willingness to freshen up the playing staff during pre-season too meaning that a lot of the out of contract players were not retained including Keiran Murtagh, Piero Mingoia and Shaquille Coulthrist. To date, you would suggest that the Wood have recruited strongly. A fee was paid for excellent left sided player Jacob Mendy who should fit seamlessly into the side's wing back system. Josh Rees, formerly of Aldershot, has also arrived with previous form at providing goals from midfield, which Garrard has identified as a need going forward. For too long last season, the side were over reliant on the goals of Kabongo Tshimanga but his summer move to Chesterfield means Boreham Wood will need a new plan of attack. Scott Boden is the first striker to arrive this pre-season. The 31-year-old may not have the physical attributes of Tshimanga but has a knack for being in the right place at the right time as his goal record in the division attests to. Further solid additions have been made with the experienced midfielder Frankie Raymond and defender Will Evans coming in to add competition to these areas.
Manager: After a long playing career in non-league football that culminated in 2015, Luke Garrard became manager of his final club - Boreham Wood. Garrard had been player/assistant to Ian Allinson at the club since 2013 and upon accepting the position became the youngest manager in all of England's top five divisions. Garrard has experienced success with the club over the past six seasons with the play offs being reached on two occasions. In particular, the 2017/18 season saw Boreham Wood reach the play off final where they lost narrowly to Tranmere Rovers.
Unheralded Gem: Josh Rees - A goal-scoring midfielder who has hit double figures in two of his last three National League seasons.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Scott Boden
Overall prediction: Last season I tipped Boreham Wood to win the league based on the firepower that they had recruited. However, a closer inspection of Boreham Wood's form in recent times shows that they don't score many goals over the course of a season and that they draw far too many games that they should be winning. With Luke Garrard's style of play notably pragmatic and the lack of Tshimanga to win a game in a moment for them now, it is hard to see Boreham Wood pressing on much from last season's performance.
Dagenham & Redbridge
In
Josh Walker (Barnet)
In
Josh Walker (Barnet)
Sam Ling (Leyton Orient)
Aaron Blair (Ongar Town)
Outs
James Dobson
Luke Croll
Sam Deering
Mitch Brundle
Andrew Eleftheriou
Adrian Clifton
Darren McQueen
Potential line up
Squad brief: This has been Dagenham & Redbridge's quietest summer in a long time. It has become a trend of recent times for the club to be overhauling their squad after a season of disappointment. Yet there is a quiet optimism in the air following an excellent end of season run that brought 23 points from the final 10 matches. That's not to say it was an easy season for the Daggers. In hindsight, Daryl McMahon will be first to admit that he kept a few too many of the prior season's players on as the side struggled for any consistency during the first two thirds of the campaign. Recruitment errors have since been corrected as Mo Sagaf, Mauro Vilhete and Saidou Khan arrived early in 2021 to add energy and quality to the spine of the side. That the club couldn't secure the permanent signing of Khan this summer was a blow however. Those out of favour have duly departed with Sam Deering and Mitch Brundle amongst others being let go. Right back Sam Ling and former Barnet striker Josh Walker are the only additions to a squad that is of a sensible size and with quality in the key areas. The Daggers will hope that Matt Robinson is given license to go forward from midfield again as he did so in such prolific fashion last season. This may be dependant on whether McMahon decides to line up with Josh Walker, Angelo Balanta and Paul McCallum all in the same side. All three are perfectly capable of hitting double figures but potentially their collective inclusion could lead to an imbalance throughout the side. Defensively, Kenny Clark, Callum Reynolds, Elliott Johnson and Will Wright will be contesting the three centre back spots with the reliable Elliott Justham in goal. There is also competition for the wing back slots with Myles Weston, Sam Ling, Mauro Vilhete and George Saunders all making a case.
Manager: At the age of 37, Daryl McMahon is still in his managerial infancy yet it feels as if he's been around for a long time. The former Leyton Orient and Stevenage player took over at National League South side Ebbsfleet in 2015 before leading them to promotion via the play offs a year later. His success continued the following season as Ebbsfleet made the National League play offs but this time they were defeated at the semi final stage by Tranmere Rovers. After departing Ebbsfleet the following season, McMahon took over at Macclesfield Town amidst a financial crisis. Five months later, McMahon resigned as the club's troubles worsened before joining the Daggers a day later.
Unheralded Gem: Mauro Vilhete - A tireless, workhorse with great feet who can play out wide and in the centre. A manager's dream.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Paul McCallum
Prediction: This could be a defining season for Daryl McMahon and the Daggers. A repeat of last season's initial flirting with relegation will not be tolerated and McMahon will likely be searching for a new job if this is the case. Yet, there is a feeling that Dagenham & Redbridge may be onto something this season. A play off challenge should be the minimum aim with the firepower and ability in key positions. Undoubtedly, the Daggers will win their fair share of games this season. But do they contain that steeliness; that ability to find a positive result when they are not on top of their game and the opposition are. That could be the difference between gate-crashing the top seven and falling short.
Eastleigh
Ins
Josh Hare (Bristol Rovers)
Ins
Josh Hare (Bristol Rovers)
Michael Kelly (Bristol Rovers)
Tom Broadbent (Swindon Town)
Harry Pritchard (Bradford City)
Jake Hesketh (Southampton)
Tom Whelan (Chesterfield)
Joe Low (Bristol City - Loan)
Danny Whitehall (Kilmarnock)
Christian Maghoma (Gillingham - Loan)
Outs
Callum Baughan
Ben Scorey
Abdulai Bell-Baggie
Tom Bearwish
Lewis Beale
Jake Payne
Joe Partingdon
Michael Green
Pierce Bird
Joe Tomlinson
Potential line up
Squad brief: A common theme of Ben Strevens time as Eastleigh manager has been understated yet good recruitment. Last season was no exception as the club finished on the verge of the play offs and will probably be disappointed to have just missed out. Eastleigh will have been happy to have kept the core of their team but will be disappointed to have lost Joe Tomlinson to Peterborough after the left back scored 12 goals last season, albeit largely from the penalty spot. Nevertheless, as seems the norm, Eastleigh quietly and efficiently get on with bringing the right players in. Former right back Josh Hare returned to the club after a difficult spell at relegated Bristol Rovers whilst Michael Kelly also arrived from the Gas to replace the departed Tomlinson. Tom Broadbent and loanee Josh Low have also arrived to provide competition for Andrew Boyce and Alex Wynter at the heart of the Spitfires defence. Nevertheless, it is the acquisitions in midfield that will excite Eastleigh fans going into the season. Tom Whelan, who impressed at Chesterfield last season, was deemed surplus to requirements following their heavy recruitment this summer and will provide a great option on the ball for Ben Strevens' side in the middle of the park. Harry Pritchard has also joined from Bradford. The winger cum attacking midfielder struggled with injuries in the Football League but was formerly prolific at this level with Maidenhead. The biggest gem of all though may be the signing of Southampton's Jake Hesketh. The 25-year-old has spent the entirety of his time at the Saints out on loan at various Football League clubs but injuries have hindered his progress. An attacking midfielder by trade, Hesketh joins permanently to very positive reviews by supporters of the clubs he has played for. With the prolific Ben House and reliable Tyrone Barnett leading the line, alongside the addition of ex Maidenhead forward Danny Whitehall this summer, there is also potentially real firepower at the Spitfires this season.
Manager: A name instantly recognisable to long time followers of non-league football - Ben Strevens forged an excellent playing career as a striker for several clubs including Dagenham & Redbridge and Barnet. Upon finishing his career as a pro with Eastleigh, Strevens moved from the position of Assistant Manager to Manager following Andy Hessenthalar's resignation. In his first season in charge, Strevens led the club to the Play Off semi finals where they narrowly lost on penalties to promoted Salford. The following year was one of transition for Strevens and his side before last season's impressive near miss on the play offs.
Unheralded Gem: Jake Hesketh - A technically gifted attacking midfielder who has impressed on loan at various Football league clubs in recent years.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Ben House
Prediction: Eastleigh have all the credentials of a side ready to push on this season and make a serious bid for promotion. Talent in all positions, Ben Strevens' will quietly be hoping to take advantage of the focus being on other clubs. However, to really mount a serious promotion bid, Eastleigh may need several of their injury prone signings to have a clean bill of health for much of the season. Keep everyone fit and Eastleigh might be laughing but a lack of depth could hinder them over a long season.
Grimsby Town
In
Shaun Pearson (Wrexham)
John McAtee (Scunthorpe)
Ryan Sears (Shrewsbury)
Ben Fox (Burton Albion)
David Longe-King (Newport)
Ryan Taylor (Newport)
Erico Sousa (Darlington)
Michee Efete (Wealdstone)
Adam Crookes (Port Vale)
Joel Grant (Swindon Town)
Seb Revan (Aston Villa - Loan)
Max Crocombe (Melbourne Victory)
Will Bapaga (Coventry City)
Alex Hunt (Sheffield Wednesday)
Outs
Mattie Pollock
Elliott Hewitt
Sam Habergham
Joe Bunney
Ludvig Ohman
Julien Lamy
James Hanson
Matt Green
Alhagi Touray Sisay
Stefan Payne
Cameron Painter
Jock Curran
George Williams
Potential Line Up
Squad brief: Five years after scratching and clawing their way back to the Football League, Grimsby find themselves back in the National League following a disastrous season. Ian Holloway recruited poorly and departed the club in December before Paul Hurst was unable to save the club in time from relegation. Whilst several of last season's deadwood have departed, Grimsby have not been shy in recruiting this summer with the squad currently standing close to 30 players. A whole new defence has effectively been signed with left backs Seb Revan and Adam Crookes competing over the role and right backs Michee Efete and Ryan Sears doing the same. With Grimsby potentially switching between 4 and 5 at the back, it may be a case of all bases covered with the full/wing back options. In the centre of defence, Shaun Pearson makes a return in the hope of achieving a second promotion with Grimsby along with David Longe-King from Newport. In the centre of midfield, Ben Fox and Alex Hunt have joined to compliment the Cod's existing options in Giles Coke and Harry Clifton. John McAtee has also been acquired from Scunthorpe with the intent seemingly to play him as a number 10 behind the striker. However, a pre-season injury crisis may see McAtee debut as the number 9 himself as new signing Ryan Taylor and fellow forward Lenell John-Lewis are just two to have succumbed to knocks. With wingers Joel Grant, Erico Sousa and Will Bapaga also arriving, there are many options for the starting XI even with multiple injuries. To date, the club still have Filipe Morais, Ira Jackson Jnr, Danny Rose, Duncan Idehan and Joe Starbuck at the club despite being on the transfer list. Moving some of these on would help give Grimsby more room to manoeuvre in the market as the season progresses.
Manager: Paul Hurst needs no introduction to most after securing promotion with Grimsby from the National League in 2016. Following this success, Hurst left soon after to take charge of League 1 Shrewsbury. In his second season at the club, he finished a terrific 3rd only to lose the Play Off final to Rotherham. Such success saw Hurst offered the Ipswich job giving him the opportunity to manage in the Championship. Nevertheless, this only lasted for five months with Hurst sacked and the club bottom of the league. Another short stint at Scunthorpe followed before his return to Grimsby last season where he was unable to prevent the club from being relegated.
Unheralded Gem: Sebastian Revan - The 18-year-old left back was part of Aston Villa's FA Youth Cup winning side and could be a breakout star for the Mariners this season.
Top goal-scorer prediction: Lenell John-Lewis
Overall prediction: Grimsby supporters will be hoping Paul Hurst is able to lead them to his second promotion at this level at the first time of asking. Historically though, it normally takes Hurst a few seasons for him to build a team in his own image. Even Hurst's initial spell at Grimsby saw him come under pressure on various occasions due to mixed results. With a squad mixed with last season's failings and a large scattering of young ex Football League players, it may take Grimsby longer than they would wish to secure a squad that is ready for a proper promotion challenge in this incredibly competitive division.
Notts County
Ins
Kyle Cameron (Torquay)
Ins
Kyle Cameron (Torquay)
Frank Vincent (AFC Bournemouth)
Joel Taylor (Chesterfield)
Ed Francis (Harrogate)
Aaron Nemane (Torquay)
Matt Palmer (Swindon)
Kairo Mitchell (Chesterfield)
Outs
Luke Pilling
Luke Steele
Ben Turner
Damian McCrory
Jordan Barnett
Enzio Boldewijn
Jake Reeves
Potential line up
Squad brief: A change of tact midway through last season for Notts County as Neil Ardley's cautious style of play departed for Ian Burchnall's attacking brand of football. This summer, Burchnall has been active in the transfer market to bring in players to fit the style of play he desires. Wing backs Joel Taylor and Aaron Nemane have arrived from Chesterfield and Torquay respectively. Both players have tremendous energy and will be a force up and down the wings. The central midfield area has also been revamped with Jake Reeves departing and Michael Doyle transitioning into a player/coach role. Former Man City youngster Ed Francis, who was recently released by Harrogate Town, and ex Swindon player Matt Palmer will aim to be strong in possession in the middle of the pitch. This frees up the two jewels in County's crown. Ruben Rodrigues and Cal Roberts are two of the most exciting attacking midfielders in the division. Rodrigues, in particular, came into his own last season after Burchnall's arrival and a position change that saw him stationed much closer to striker Kyle Wootton. Wootton himself enjoyed a 17 goals season - the best of his young career so far - and the reliance will likely be on him again as the club have chosen to not bring in a marquee striker like the competition around them. Kairo Mitchell, a potential future prospect, has joined as an alterative forward option from Chesterfield after originally scoring several goals for Kings Lynn during the opening weeks of last season. Elsewhere, centre back Kyle Cameron joins from Torquay in a bid to shore up a defence that was very exposed following Burchnall's arrival.
Manager: Ian Burchnall's managerial career to date has probably been the most varied of all managers in the division. Working at academies from the age of 22, Burchnall moved to Norway aged 22 to become Brian Deane's assistant at Sarpsborg FC. His first managerial role came in 2016 when he took over as Viking FC manager. Burchnall lasted a year before being sacked due to poor results much to supporter discontent. Despite this, he became Graham Potter's successor at Ostersunds FK in Sweden following his predecessor's move to Brighton. Burchnall impressed at the club in his first season finishing with just 1 point less than the club record. The following season saw Burchnall acclaimed for keeping the club in the division after off the field challenges became apparent. In 2020, Burchnall resigned after philosophical differences about the club's future and waging a desire to come back to England.
Unheralded Gem: Cal Roberts - Full of pace and trickery, the winger/forward could light up the division if the injuries stay away.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Kyle Wootton
Overall prediction: Notts County could potentially be the division's entertainers under Ian Burchnall this season. However, the fast, fluid attacking style that the manager employs does appear to leave them very vulnerable in defence. As a new manager to the division, it will be interesting to see how Burchnall reacts as other sides set traps and become accustomed to how County are going to play. In truth, County are one of the toughest sides to predict as if it all clicks, winning the league would be no surprise. Even so, early evidence points to an up and down season where the team's weaknesses are exploited on occasions.
Solihull Moors
Ins
Ryan Barnett (Shrewsbury)
Ins
Ryan Barnett (Shrewsbury)
Harry Boyes (Sheffield United)
Ryan Boot (Resigned)
Matt Preston (Barnet)
Danny Newton (Stevenage)
Lois Maynard (Stockport - Loan)
Andrew Dallas (Cambridge)
Outs
Nathan Cameron
Stephen Gleeson
Mitch Hancox
Lewis Micchio
Joshveer Shergill
Jamie Ward
Darren Carter
Cameron Coxe (Loan)
Jordan Piggott (Loan)
Melis Bushaj (Loan)
Potential line up
Squad brief: Last season was a damp squib for Solihull after expecting to challenge for a play off spot. James Shan was sacked midway through the season although the former West Brom manager can perhaps point to the plethora of injuries to key players as a reason for the side's struggles. Mark Yates took over until the end of the season and had the Moors in stunning form with 19 points from the final 7 games. However, the club swooped for Neil Ardley following his departure from Notts County last season. Ardley has acted to clear out some of the aging players signed last summer who struggled to make an impact such as Stephen Gleeson and Jamie Ward. The squad has a fresh look to it with Matt Preston and Harry Boyes joining to add competition at centre back whilst Callum Howe and Alex Gudger are also returning from long-term injuries. Young 6 foot 9 striker Kyle Hudlin was burdened to lead the line for most of last season but Ardley has added real options to his strikeforce this time around with Danny Newton and Andy Dallas joining. Newton was an impressive performer in League Two for Stevenage with his 'never stop running' style whilst Dallas scored 12 goals after a mid season loan to Weymouth in the campaign just gone. Formation wise, Solihull are hard to predict with the manager trying out different systems in pre-season. However, Ardley normally like a protective screen in front of his defence so a 4-4-2 or a 3-5-2 are likely to be the options. If wingers are used then Ryan Barnett, recently signed from Shrewsbury, will likely play wide right whilst Joe Sbarra, comfortable at 8, 10 or on the left, could line up on the opposite side. If not, Ardley may well pack the midfield which would possibly see Kyle Storer, Callum Maycock or new signing Lois Maynard come into contention for starting spots. Jamey Osborne and James Ball both provide excellent options to play slightly further forward with decent goal returns from an attacking midfield position.
Manager: Over the past ten years, Neil Ardley has gained a reputation as a shrewd operator at lower league level. His first full time management role in charge of AFC Wimbledon saw him establish the club within League Two over a number of years before promotion to League One via the play offs in 2016. Ardley was then able to keep the club in League One for a couple of seasons before departing in 2018. Soon after, Ardley gambled by joining Notts County who were staring relegation to the National League in the face. Ardley was unable to save the club from the drop but did manage to take the club to the Play Off final at the first time of asking where they were beaten by Harrogate. The following season proved trickier for Ardley and he was sacked midway through with County off the pace from the league leaders. The summer saw him return to football as manager of Solihull Moors where he will be hoping to achieve the promotion to the Football League that has eluded him so far.
Unheralded Gem: Joe Sbarra - Diminutive, technically sound attacking midfielder who always pops with a goal or two from the left.
Top goal-scorer prediction: Andrew Dallas
Overall prediction: Solihull have a very good squad for National League level which still contains the remnants of the side that finished 2nd under Tim Flowers a few seasons ago. Their form at the end of last season may well be a preview for what is to come this season under Neil Ardley. A very good organiser - Ardley's teams are often in and around the play off positions although his teams are rarely in contention for winning a division due to their tendency to draw too many games. If Solihull can keep their key players fit this season, then there is no reason why they can't be competing with the bigger names in this division.
Torquay United
Ins
Ins
Marcin Brzozowski (QPR)
Mark Halstead (Morecambe)
Ali Omar (Barnsley)
Dan Martin (Cardiff)
Tom Lapslie (Colchester)
Keelan O'Connell (Bournemouth)
Klaidi Lolos (Plymouth)
Dan Holman (Unattached)
Chiori Johnson (Welling)
Gabriel Rogers (Yeovil)
Outs
Kyle Cameron
Kyle Cameron
Lucas Covolan
Ben Whitfield
Matt Buse
Josh Umerah
Billy Waters
Shaun MacDonald
Aaron Nemane
Potential line up
Squad brief: Not many people would have predicted Torquay United to finish runners up in the National League last season. At one point, it looked as if Torquay were going to canter to the league title but a loss of form midway through the campaign saw them just falter when it mattered. Adding to that, the club suffered heartbreak in the Play Off final with a penalty shoot out defeat. All in all though, it was a wonderful season for Gary Johnson's side. Success breeds interest and Torquay have had to say goodbye to wide men Ben Whitfield and Aaron Nemane this summer whilst goalkeeper Lucas Covolan and defender Kyle Cameron have also sought pastures new. Johnson has taken his time with recruitment and looked to previously unheralded players to shine again this season. Mark Halstead joins from Morecambe to replace the departing Covolan in goal whilst left back Dan Martin will provide competition to veteran Dean Moxey. Ali Omar looks to be a shrewd and commanding addition at centre back as a replacement for Kyle Cameron. The 6 foot 3 defender shone for Barnsley U23s last season and also adds an attacking threat from corners. One eye catching signing for Torquay was the acquisition of Tom Lapslie after his contract expired at Colchester. Despite only being 5 foot 5, Lapslie is a gritty, battling midfielder and will add 150 games of Football League experience to the core of the side. Elsewhere, the departures of Whitfield and Nemane left two glaring vacancies out wide which have been filled with 20-year-old Gabriel Rogers and 21-year-old Keelan O'Connell. Supporters will hope that Johnson can turn both into gems in the way he has done with so many players. Success last season was partly built around striker Danny Wright, who hit double figures last season, despite an injury hit campaign. Noticeably the side struggled a touch without his presence up front. In a bid to aid this, Johnson has taken a trip down memory lane this summer and reunited himself with striker Dan Holman. Holman has struggled for form over the past five years and quit the game at one point. Nevertheless, he has scored for fun in pre-season and previously produced his best football under Johnson at Cheltenham. It will be interesting to see whether Johnson pairs Holman and Wright together or continues with the setup that saw Connor Lemonheigh-Evans hit 10 goals from playing just behind the lone striker.
Manager: You won't find a manager more experienced in the division than Gary Johnson. The veteran 65-year-old has won 4 league titles during his career at Yeovil (twice), Cheltenham Town and at current club Torquay. Added to this Johnson has six promotions on his C.V with the aforementioned titles added to with a league runners up medal with Bristol City and a Play Off final victory with Yeovil in his second spell at the club. Just for good measure, Johnson has even managed at international level with Latvia! At Torquay, Johnson led the side to the National League South title three seasons ago before going almightily close to a Football League return last season.
Unheralded Gem: Connor Lemonheigh-Evans - Energetic, creative attacking midfielder equally comfortable creating chances and making runs in beyond the striker.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Dan Holman
Overall prediction: There is a danger that Torquay could suffer a play off hangover but Gary Johnson is experienced enough to prevent that from happening. Whilst some impressive performers from last season's success have departed, crucially Torquay have kept their core and, in particular, their central midfield trio of Tom Lapslie, Asa Hall and Connor Lemonheigh-Evans will be one of, if not, the best in the division. Potentially, the chance for promotion may have been last season before some of the wealthier clubs in the league started flexing their muscles but Johnson's Torquay will be a hard working and cohesive unit with quality in the final third. And such attributes go a long way to success in this division.
Title chasers
Bromley
In
In
Corey Whitely (Newport County)
Joe Partington (Eastleigh)
Sam Skeffington (Millwall)
Louis Dennis (Leyton Orient)
Toby Stevenson (Watford)
Nathan Tormey (Arsenal)
Archie Burnett (Margate)
George Alexander (Millwall)
Harry Forster (Watford - Loan)
Omar Sowunmi (Colchester United)
Outs
Liam Vincent
Outs
Liam Vincent
Jack Holland
Frankie Raymond
Joe Kizzi
Ben Williamson
Jack Bridge
Charlie Fox
Tarek Najia
Tom Purrington
Charlie Wakefield
Ollie Tanner
Courtney Duffus
Potential line up
Squad brief: Last season proved to be the nail in the coffin for manager Neil Smith who was sacked thus ending his 10 year association with Bromley. Interesting the decision was made when Bromley were sitting just inside the play offs but the move signalled the intent of the desire from chairman Robin Stanton Gleaves to push on to the Football League. Ex goalkeeper Andy Woodman's appointment was rather out of the blue although he immediately impressed by taking the side to the play offs during a congested end of season. This summer, Bromley have recruited with real intent. Several familiar faces in Frankie Raymond, Jack Holland and Ben Williamson, just to name a few, departed as the club look to push on with higher quality replacements. Corey Whitely was the first to arrive from Newport after a loan stint at Boreham Wood last season where he largely played left wing back. As a matter of fact, the club have signed numerous players capable of playing down the left with Harry Forster returning again on loan, left back Toby Stevenson arriving also from Watford and exciting winger Nathan Tormey joining from Arsenal. Former Bromley star Louis Dennis has also returned following his release from Leyton Orient. Capable of playing on the left also, it is likely that Dennis will be given the license to roam behind star striker Michael Cheek. Defensively, Bromley will be looking to improve this season after conceding the 2nd most goals in the top half of the table last season. Centre back Omar Sowunmi will look to remedy that problem after joining from Colchester. The former Yeovil man has a wealth of experience at League Two level and will provide competition for Chris Bush and Byron Webster. Alongside Sowunmi, the Ravens have also signed Joe Partingdon. The former Eastleigh man provides a good option at right back or as a right sided centre back if Bromley choose to go with a 3-5-2. This flexibility sums up the Bromley squad as there are many different ways that Woodman could choose to line his side up.
Manager: Andy Woodman left a lot of people asking 'who?' when he was unveiled as the new Bromley manager in March. As a goalkeeper, Woodman's playing career saw him represent numerous sides in the Football League with his stint at Northampton Town perhaps the most memorable. After retiring, he spent a lot of time following Alan Pardew from club to club as goalkeeper coach before embarking on a managerial role himself at Whitehawk in 2017. Woodman saved the club from relegation and left shortly afterwards before becoming the Head of Goalkeeping at Arsenal - a role in which he held until Bromley came calling earlier this year.
Unheralded Gem: Sam Skeffington - The young centre midfielder impressed immensely last season on loan at Barnet and could potentially have a real breakout season.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Michael Cheek
Overall prediction: Make no mistake, Bromley are going for it this season. The club have recruited an exciting collection of players with the majority already having experience of performing well in the National League. Most importantly though, Bromley have as close to a guaranteed goal-scorer at this level as you can get in Michael Cheek. Andy Woodman's first 14 games have only yielded two defeats with seven clean sheets showing that Bromley are well organised under his stewardship. Winning the league might just be a step out of their reach but I think Bromley may well be embedded with the top few clubs in the division for much of the season.
Chesterfield
Ins
Scott Loach (Barnet)
Ins
Scott Loach (Barnet)
Jamie Grimes (Hereford)
Calvin Miller (Harrogate)
Jack Clarke (Aston Villa)
Stefan Payne (Grimsby)
Saidou Khan (Maidstone)
Kabongo Tshimanga (Boreham Wood)
Melvin Minter (Harrogate)
Jim Kellerman (Kidderminster)
Outs
Milan Butterfield
Luke Coddington
Scott Boden
David Buchanan
Will Evans
Regan Hutchison
Jack McKay
James Montgomery
Luke Rawson
Jamie Sharman
Jonathan Smith
Josef Yarney
Dylan Wharton
Grant Smith
Tom Whelan
Joel Taylor
Kairo Mitchell
Joe Rowley (Loan)
Potential line up
Squad brief: As predicted, the beginning of last season saw Chesterfield in all sorts of trouble with John Pemberton in charge. November saw the appointment of James Rowe which saw the club undergo a complete transformation. Furloughing a chunk of the squad, Rowe brought in a fair few players of his own as Chesterfield took 63 points from his 33 league matches in charge last season. Although not entirely expected, the Spireites' released list was huge post-season as Rowe cleared space to add quality to what he had already previously signed. The first piece of business this summer was to recruit a quality goalkeeper and the club have done this with the signature of Scott Loach from Barnet. With the club's record with Rowe in charge reading at only 25 league goals conceded, this hasn't stopped the manager from adding to his defence with centre back Jamie Grimes joining from Hereford and left wing back Calvin Miller seemingly replacing the outgoing Joel Taylor. A big success of last season was Curtis Weston's resurgence in the midfield but the experienced captain's position may well come under threat after Saidou Khan joined from Maidstone. The 25-year-old had a breakthrough loan spell at Dagenham & Redbridge last season and will provide energy, drive and excellent ball carrying from the middle of the pitch. Rowe will also be delighted to reacquire his own loan star from last season as Jack Clarke returns, albeit permanently this time, from Aston Villa. The attacking midfielder will be in competition with Liam Mandeville for a starting spot. However, it is up front where Chesterfield have shouted the loudest this pre-season. As if the potentially canny signing of Stefan Payne wasn't enough to compliment Danny Rowe, prolific Kabongo Tshimanga was bought from Boreham Wood to give Rowe the nicest of selection headaches. Considering previous star striker Akwasi Asante is still to return from a ruptured ACL injury, Chesterfield will boast four outstanding striking options over the course of the long season.
Manager: This time last year, James Rowe would not have been a name on the lips of many but the 38-year-old has since become one of the league's most charismatic managers. A prolific non-league career as a forward was ended by the player himself at the young age of just 27 as Rowe sought a pathway into coaching. Years of working in academies changed as Rowe became Gary Waddock's assistant at Aldershot in 2016 and helped guide the club to the play offs twice in that time. His first full time managerial position came in 2019 at Gloucester where he led the club to the top of the National League North before being head hunted by Chesterfield in November 2020.
Unheralded Gem: Jack Clarke - Shone in the attacking midfield role whilst on loan last season. Great left foot and very adept at creating space for himself.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Kabongo Tshimanga
Overall prediction: With the firepower that Chesterfield possess, it would take a brave person to back against them from being in the title race this season. Out of all the sides spending vast sums of money, I think Chesterfield have the best synergy throughout their team. The midfield trio has a perfect blend of bite, ball carrying and technical quality whilst the club's other key signings appear to fit perfectly into James Rowe's 3-5-2 system. Rowe's biggest challenge in fact may be keeping all six of his strikers happy but the 38-year-old appears to have the personality to make tough decisions. Sticking my neck out, I think this could be Chesterfield's year.
Stockport County
Ins
Ben Whitfield (Torquay United)
Ins
Ben Whitfield (Torquay United)
Ethan Ross (Lincoln City)
Scott Quigley (Barrow)
Tom Walker (Harrogate)
Will Fish (Man Utd - Loan)
Ben Barclay (Accrington)
Arjan Raikhy (Aston Villa - Loan)
Outs
Josh Barnes
Ross Fitzsimons
Adam Owen
Finley Stanyer
Jordan Downing
Alex Curran
Max Greenhalgh
Jack Hopkins
Harvey Gilmour
Adam Thomas
Nyal Bell
Jordan Williams
Ritchie Bennett
Lois Maynard (Loan)
James Jennings
Jamie Stott (Loan)
Jack Hinchy
Potential line up
Squad brief: Widely expected to challenge for the title last season, Stockport County were never truly in the race. A third place finish was respectable however the side drew 14 games and were always chasing; a fact that cost Jim Gannon his job when the team were 14 points behind the league leaders. A Play Off semi final defeat to eventual winners Hartlepool highlighted that there were still improvements to be made this coming season. One area that perhaps didn't need strengthening was the Hatters' defence. Only 32 goals were shipped in the entirety of last season - the best record in the division. Nevertheless, manager Simon Rusk has looked to add more depth to his options with former Accrington player Ben Barclay and talented Manchester United loanee Will Fish giving competition to Ash Palmer and Liam Hogan at centre back. At the other end, Paddy Madden was the marquee signing in the middle of last season and the club have looked to compliment that with the acquisition of Scott Quigley from Barrow. The 6 foot 4 forward scored 15 goals last season in League Two coming off a 20 goal campaign as Barrow were promoted from the National League. With John Rooney most likely stationed just behind the front two, this gives Stockport one of the most potent trios in the division. Other signings have been fewer and far between as Rusk looks to reduce the size of the squad. However, goalkeeper Ethan Ross arrives to provide competition between the sticks and Tom Walker returns after a loan spell at wing back last season. In one of the more intriguing transfers of the summer, the club signed Torquay star Ben Whitfield after a standout season for the National League runners up. Quite where Whitfield fits in to a side seemingly intent on playing 3-5-2 is anybody's guess however.
Manager: Simon Rusk was an unexpected choice to succeed Jim Gannon last season. The former Boston midfielder spent five impressive seasons in charge of Brighton U23 side as he led the youth team to the highest level of U23 football. Rusk's start in charge of Stockport was not without its criticism as supporters questioned the team's more patient attacking approach compared to that of Gannon's philosophy. However, strong end of season form tempered by the defeat in the Play Off semi final has given Rusk an opportunity to start afresh this season as he aims to the lead the club back to the Football League for the first time in 11 years.
Unheralded Gem: Macauley Southam-Hales - A pacey right wing back full of direct and attacking intent.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Paddy Madden
Overall prediction: It is so hard to separate the clubs spending money this summer. It really does come down to the fine margains. I'm not totally convinced that Simon Rusk is the man to lead Stockport to promotion. Closer scrutiny of Stockport's performance last season shows that they won only 3 of 13 matches against sides that finished in the top seven. The Hatters' issue was seemingly having that change of pace in the forward areas to break down sides with men behind the ball. It appears that Rusk is set to stick with the 3-4-1-2 formation that has John Rooney behind the strikers. As prolific as Rooney is, this does prevent the side from operating with wingers and achieving that sudden change of tempo. Stockport will beat a lot of teams this season; but will they beat enough to win the league outright? I think they might just fall short.
Wrexham
Ins
Shaun Brisley (Port Vale)
Ins
Shaun Brisley (Port Vale)
Liam McAlinden (Morecambe)
Jake Hyde (Halifax)
Harry Lennon (Southend)
Paul Mullin (Cambridge)
Aaron Hayden (Carlisle)
Dave Jones (Oldham)
Outs
Mark Carrington
Bobby Grant
Jay Harris
James Horsfield
Fiacre Kelleher
Paul Rutherford
Chris Sang
Theo Vassell
Shaun Pearson
Gold Omotayo
Potential line up
Squad brief: Who would have guessed, Hollywood have arrived in the National League! Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny's takeover of Wrexham was approved in February of this year ensuring publicity of the club and even the division has gone to a whole new level. Manager Dean Keates was let go after failing to guide Wrexham into the play offs last season and experienced Football League campaigner Phil Parkinson was the man chosen to enter the pressure chamber. Recruitment has been interesting to watch with a few key players from last season departing including centre backs Fiacre Kelleher and Shaun Pearson. Parkinson has moved to bring in his own centre backs with Shaun Brisley, Aaron Hayden and Harry Lennon arriving to likely play in a back three. Hayden, in particular, shows the club's new owner pull as the defender was going into this season as League Two Carlisle's captain. The other area Parkinson has looked to strengthen is up front after no striker managed in excess of 10 goals last season. The signing of Paul Mullin, scorer of 32 goals in League Two last season, shocked the footballing world and really highlighted the limits in which Wrexham are willing to go to achieve their goals. The club's other acquisition up front, Jake Hyde, did not quite garner the same public attention but may be just as critical to Wrexham's hopes if he can remain fit. The early signs are good with Mullin and Hyde combining well in pre-season to register several goals. Elsewhere, the club also brought in Liam McAlinden from Morecambe - another League Two promoted club. McAlinden will most likely play behind the front two but is equally adept out wide. Last season's hotshot Jordan Davies will compete for the attacking midfield role with McAlinden but may be force to settle for a spot slightly deeper in the midfield alongside Luke Young or player/coach Dave Jones.
Manager: After a largely successful career at various clubs in the Football League, Phil Parkinson is the chosen one to launch Wrexham's promotion bid this season. Aged only 53, it feels as if Parkinson has been around forever with the manager starting out nearly 20 years ago at Colchester United. This proved to be the launchpad for his career with a promotion to the Championship in 2006. Nevertheless, disappointing spells at Hull and Chalrton followed before his standout spell at Bradford City followed. Amazingly, Parkinson led his side to the final of the League Cup and also had a tremendous FA Cup run which involved beating Premier League giants Chelsea in the 4th round. Either side of this, Bradford were promoted from League Two and reached the League One Play Offs before Parkinson left. Further spells at Bolton, where he achieved promotion from League 1, and Sunderland came and went before the call came from Wrexham to join the Hollywood bandwagon.
Unheralded Gem: Jordan Davies - A young, attacking midfielder, who can also play a touch deeper, with a great left foot and streaky goal touch.
Top Goal-scorer Prediction: Paul Mullin
Overall prediction: For years, Wrexham have been that club who just fall short. Whether it be the lack of firepower or a manager that can't get the best from his squad, Wrexham have long established their reputation as the division's 'nearly men'. This season surely represents their best chance of the last decade for the club to win their long awaited promotion back to the Football League. You would imagine Wrexham will continue to add to the playing staff over the season and will most likely go very close under Parkinson's shrewd leadership. I just wonder if one pre-season is enough to completely transform the squad into the image that the manager wants from the get go. In particular, the centre of midfield currently looks a little light of the quality that champions normally employ. If the squad is not quite right, there will always be another side ready to take advantage and I think that Wrexham might find themselves in that 'so close, yet so far' camp again.
The one that everybody gets wrong
1) Chesterfield FC
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2) Wrexham
3) Stockport County
4) Bromley FC
5) Torquay United
6) Notts County
7) Solihull Moors
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8) Dagenham & Redbridge
9) Eastleigh FC
10) Grimsby Town
11) Boreham Wood
12) Woking
13) Barnet
14) FC Halifax
15) Southend United
16) Yeovil Town
17) Maidenhead United
18) Altrincham
19) Kings Lynn
20) Aldershot
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21) Dover
22) Wealdstone
23) Weymouth
Further predictions
Managers to depart
Simon Rusk (Stockport)
Paul Hurst (Grimsby)
Harry Kewell (Barnet)
Phil Brown (Southend)
Darren Sarll (Yeovil)
Stuart Maynard (Wealdstone)
Brian Stock (Weymouth)
National League Top Goalscorer
1st: Michael Cheek (Bromley)
2nd: Paddy Madden (Stockport County)
3rd: Kabongo Tshimanga (Chesterfield)
Play Off Winners
Torquay United
